Hidden in the jungle of remote Piedras Blancas National Park in southern Costa Rica, and surrounded by thousands of acres of untouched wilderness is Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. This retreat was designed for nature lovers wishing to experience the sounds and sights of a tropical rainforest in a tranquil, undisturbed atmosphere.

The lodge is located near the village of La Gamba, only three miles from the Interamerican Highway and a 30-minute drive from the airstrip at Golfito. Esquinas is part of a model project which combines nature conservation, rainforest research and community development. Opened in 1994, the lodge was financed by the government of Austria and has a strong commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

All 14 rooms have private bathrooms with hot water shower, ceiling fan and screens on all the windows with maximum occupancy for three persons. Each of the rooms is tastefully decorated with colorful materials woven by the descendents of the original inhabitants of this lands, local Guaymí and Boruca.

Hummingbirds, parrots, toucans and many more of the 300+ species of birds found here frequent the trees and flowers surrounding the seven bungalows.

The restaurant serves typical Costa Rican dishes prepared with organic products from their own vegetable garden, typical products of the region, and freshly caught fish from the Golfo Dulce. Many of the dishes served include tropical vegetables and fruits which guests have probably never tasted before and all meals are individually prepared and served at each table.

A crystal-clear jungle stream flows through the pool on the property, which has a year-round temperature of 75 F. There's no need for a noisy pump, filters or chlorine. The 37-acre property on which Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is situated is at the end of a valley surrounded on three sides by the rainforest of Piedras Blancas National Park. This unique and privileged location attracts many of the birds and animals which inhabit the area.